I wanted to talk to you today about how to control your spending. This is still something I am working on, it's work.

But you see, in order for us to get out of debt, it took some behavior changes. I had to really become intentional in my spending. That was difficult for me. If that's not something you struggle with, great. But for many, it is.

So I have four questions I ask myself before I make a purchase.

1. Do I really need this.That's a fair question. Do I really need what I am buying, or do I just think I need it? Is it a want? And what is driving that want? Is it emotional? If it's not a need, or something I have wanted for more than six months and it's at an extraordinary price and I have the extra cash to pay for it... it goes back on the shelf.

2. Do I have something else that will serve the same function?What is that old saying "use it up..."Do I have something I could "make it do?" Do I really need another tshirt? Cardigan? Coffee mug?

3. Where am I going to put it?This is a big one for me. I have declared war on clutter in my house. So before I purchase something I have started to ask where I will put it. And now when I bring something into my house, it usually means something else is LEAVING!

4. Can I get it for a better price else where?Before I buy anything I have gotten in the habit of looking either on Amazon or Craigslist. This has proven to be smart. I recently bought Ry a new booster seat and found one on Amazon for $30. Then I looked on Craislist and found almost the exact same one for a third of the price.

And clearly, Ry is not traumatized by the used seat!

What are some ways you curb your spending? Leave me a comment telling me! I love to hear from you.

Frugal Debt Free Life

Frugal Debt Free Life is a blog for those looking to get out of debt, stay out of debt, save money and live a more simplistic life style.

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